Chapel Hill is buzzing. Not because of a big win, not because of a returning star — but because of a name that’s quickly climbing the list of players to watch in the 2024–25 college basketball season: Caleb Wilson.
The incoming freshman and five-star power forward has yet to suit up in a Tar Heels jersey in official action, but you wouldn’t know it by the way fans, scouts, and basketball insiders are talking. With an early wave of training footage, mixtapes, and behind-the-scenes highlights already surfacing, it’s clear that Wilson isn’t just another talented recruit — he’s the real deal.
A recent post from @collegeballmixtapes on Instagram captured the momentum perfectly:
“Incoming freshman and five-star power forward Caleb Wilson has been gearing up for a big season with UNC. He’s got North Carolina fans excited.
Who Is Caleb Wilson?
Standing 6-foot-9 with a versatile skillset, Wilson blends modern power forward athleticism with old-school grit. Hailing from Georgia, Wilson made headlines throughout his high school career as a top-five recruit nationally and the No. 1 power forward in the 2024 class according to multiple recruiting outlets.
What separates him from others at his position is his ability to do a little bit of everything — stretch the floor, handle the ball, dominate the glass, defend multiple positions, and finish above the rim with ease.
One scout put it bluntly:
“He moves like a wing, rebounds like a center, and scores like a guard. UNC is getting a monster.”
Wilson has reportedly been a fixture in the gym since arriving in Chapel Hill this summer. Whether it’s team practices, individual skill sessions, or strength and conditioning work, the five-star forward has already built a reputation among coaches and teammates as a relentless worker.
Insiders at UNC’s summer practices have noted his high motor, quiet confidence, and ability to elevate the tempo of drills. Even veteran players have taken notice — impressed not just by his talent, but his approach.
“He’s coming in humble but locked in,” said one UNC staff member. “He wants to earn his spot, not be handed it.”
What This Means for UNC
North Carolina fans have every reason to be excited. With Caleb Love, Armando Bacot, and R.J. Davis having moved on in recent years, the Tar Heels are in a phase of retooling — and Wilson might just be the cornerstone of the next wave.
His presence on the court will likely allow UNC to play faster, switch more defensively, and stretch the floor in ways they haven’t consistently done in recent years. His ability to impact both ends makes him an early candidate for ACC Freshman of the Year and potentially a one-and-done NBA lottery pick if all clicks as expected.
The lights haven’t even come on yet at the Dean Dome, but the whispers are growing louder: Caleb Wilson could be the next great Tar Heel.
For now, all signs point to a breakout freshman campaign, and if Wilson keeps grinding the way he has, North Carolina may soon find themselves back in the national spotlight — with No. 0 (or whatever number he chooses) leading the charge.
Stay tuned — this story is just getting started. 🐏🔥
